If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to work where world-class particle accelerators, photon science, and frontier physics come alive, this is your moment. The Summer Student Programme 2026 at DESY (Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron) is officially open—and it’s inviting talented undergraduate students from around the world to spend 7.5 weeks immersed in real research at one of Europe’s largest international laboratories.
From 21 July to 10 September 2026, selected students will step out of textbooks and into active research groups in Hamburg or Zeuthen (near Berlin), working side-by-side with scientists shaping the future of physics and technology.
What This Opportunity Brings to the Table?
This is not a short course or a classroom internship—it’s a paid, research-driven summer placement designed to give students genuine laboratory experience.
Here’s what participants receive:
- Hands-on research training in cutting-edge fields such as:
- Photon science
- Accelerators
- Elementary particle physics
- Astroparticle physics
- Daily stipend of €28.50, paid throughout the programme
- Free accommodation at the DESY Hostel for the full duration
- At least partial travel cost reimbursement
- Access to English-taught lectures, lab visits, accelerator tours, and computing facilities
- A structured 39-hour work week, combining project work and academic sessions
Students work on real projects—ranging from detector hardware and experimental setups to data analysis, software development, theory, and scientific computing—gaining experience that genuinely strengthens future graduate or research applications.
Who Should Apply? (Eligibility Requisites for 2026)
This DESY programme is carefully designed for students who are ready to take their first serious step into research.
You are a strong match if you:
- Are an undergraduate student at the time of application
- Study physics or a closely related discipline, such as engineering or scientific computing
- Have a solid academic background relevant to the proposed research areas
- Are comfortable working in an international, English-speaking research environment
- Can commit fully to the 7.5-week on-site programme
Motivation, academic curiosity, and readiness for independent work are highly valued.
How the Application Can Be Submitted?
Applying for DESY summer program is straightforward but competitive. Candidates are expected to carefully follow the official application instructions before submitting.
In short, you will:
- Review the detailed application guidelines provided by DESY
- Submit your application through the official Summer Student Programme portal
- Select research interests aligned with DESY’s active fields
Strong applications clearly show academic preparation, research interest, and enthusiasm for laboratory-based work.
Applications for the DESY Summer Student Programme 2026 are currently open and will close on 31 January 2026.